This study aimed to better understand beliefs that permeate the attitudes of diabetic patients' self-care, under a qualitative methodological approach. Nine diabetic patients participated in the research. A semi-structured interview was the instrument used to collect the data, with the thematic modality content analysis technique used in data treatment. Through such analysis, three issues of significance were found - The influence of beliefs in the conceptualization of diabetes; Beliefs, self-care, and care practices; and The belief in the family role, the media role, and the health professionals' role in self-care. It was observed that the diabetic clients have healthy eating habits and phyto-therapy practices as forms of self-care; and the media, the family, and health professionals as their motivating factors. However, for the promotion of diabetic care, considerations for their beliefs should be included in self-care practices.
Diabetes mellitus; Self care; Education